New Prop

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Aug 24, 2009
6
Catalina 310 Lake Pueblo, Colorado
I am looking at replacing my prop that came with the boat when new. Any suggestions? I am looking for more power, less vibration and better backing.

thanks,

Mike
hull # 203
 
Aug 24, 2009
6
Catalina 310 Lake Pueblo, Colorado
New Prop 2

I have what came with the sailboat. Original factory prop.
 
Sep 29, 2008
1,944
Catalina 310 #185 Quantico
3-bladed prop?

I believe the 3-bladed prop is standard. What makes you think your prop is your problem. I still have a little vibration after having my prop checked, replacing the cutless bearing, inspecting the shaft, installing a flexible coupling and checking the alignment. But it is at low rpms 1200-1300 which I attribute to the inherent nature of the universal diesel.

The 3-bladed prop does fine, except for sailing where a 2-blade or folding prop would increase performance. But then you have the less that stellar performance of the 2-blade and the jolt/shock and delay of the folding prop (plus I hear that backing isn't so great). Life and props are full of compromise.
 
Jan 22, 2008
106
Catalina 350 Tacoma, WA WA
I am by no means an expert on props, but I was fortunate that my 310 came with an Autoprop folding prop. Great speed at reasonable RPM's, backs amazingly well, and I observe near a half knot improvement when I put in gear during sailing (to fold it).

However, when I talked to a prop repair place about the vibration, and could they balance the prop, they told me in their experience, folding props nearly always vibrate. As rpwillia suggests, compromise...
 
Jan 22, 2008
106
Catalina 350 Tacoma, WA WA
Oh - I should also mention that these folding props are EXPENSIVE. Mine retails at around $3,000. If it dies or is damaged, I will probably go to a 2 blade fixed, unless I get into racing (a possibility, albeit remote). Even then, at that price, new sails become a serious alternative.
 
Aug 7, 2007
76
- - Oyster Bay, NY
The reason I asked what type you had was I believe the two bladed prop was the standard and the three blades was an upgrade. So if you have a two a three would help. A few things you want to check. I was seeing a bit of loss of control with mine, but after I dived under and cleared the barnacle growth I have seen improvement. I think the vibration problem is more of a design issue with the boat and engine. If you search this board you will see many discussions on the subject.
 
Jan 22, 2008
214
Catalina 310 #147 Oakville Yacht Squadron
Flex-O-Fold

Look at the Flex-O-Fold prop
Best price performance you will find
Mine cost under a grand 6 yrs ago.




Oh - I should also mention that these folding props are EXPENSIVE. Mine retails at around $3,000. If it dies or is damaged, I will probably go to a 2 blade fixed, unless I get into racing (a possibility, albeit remote). Even then, at that price, new sails become a serious alternative.
 
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